• Miles of uncrowded white sandy beaches extend to the horizon, separating the clear blue ocean and undulating grass-covered dunes.

    Fire Island

    National Seashore New York

There are park alerts in effect.
show Alerts »

  • More Park Facilities Reopen During May 2013

    Watch Hill and Sailors Haven marinas open May 10. Limited ferry service from Sayville to Sailors Haven resumes May 13 and ferries from Patchogue to Watch Hill start on May 18. Remaining park facilities to reopen by May 25, 2013. More »

Indulge in a Coastal Kaleidoscope

Immerse yourself in an enchanting collage of coastal life and history. Rhythmic waves, high dunes, ancient maritime forests, historic landmarks and glimpses of wildlife, Fire Island has been a special place for diverse plants, animals and people for centuries. Far from the pressure of nearby big-city life, dynamic barrier island beaches offer both solitude and camaraderie, and spiritual renewal.

Features

  • 2013 Wildlife Photography Contest Poster

    Annual Art Shows & Photo Contests

    Now's the time to capture these special moments and share the magic! Enter a variety of Fire Island photo contests and art shows.

    Read More
  • Campers set up tent in barrier island campsite.

    Starry Nights, Early Sunrise - Camp at Watch Hill

    Commune with nature in the proximity of the beach and fellow campers at Watch Hill, or camp by permit in the Fire Island Wilderness! Reserve now!

    Read More
  • Ranger leads tour on beach

    What's Happening This Week

    Find out which facilities are open and what programs or special events are currently offered. Each season on Fire Island can be special!

    Read More
  • Hiker with friends in distant clearing behind the dunes.

    Explore the Fire Island Wilderness

    Less than 60 miles from New York City, this federally-designated wilderness area is small, but offers a taste of solitude and primitive recreation.

    Read More
  • Ranger with group in field in front of historic house during fall tour.

    Discover the Historic William Floyd Estate

    Ranger-guided tours at the 613-acre William Floyd Estate provide glimpses of wildlife and a taste of three centuries of history. House reopens 5/24.

    Read More
  • View of the breach at Old Inlet, looking north, on November 10, 2012

    The Breach at Old Inlet

    National Park Service staff have been tracking the position of breach at Old Inlet since it was created during Hurricane Sandy.

    Read More

Did You Know?

Close view of sand showing bands of colors: white, dark grey, and reddish purple.

New York's state gem—the garnet—may be found among the sands that comprise Fire Island's beaches. Due to differences in size and weight of the grains of sand, you may sometimes see ribbons of garnet and magnatite among the white quartz, as the sand settles on the beach. More...